Do you give your eyelids enough attention? They’re always working to help keep your eyes moisturized and protected, but they’re all too easy to take for granted. Since skin cancer can impact your eyelids just as much as the skin on your face, hands, arms, and back, it’s critical that you take precautionary measures to keep your eyelids as safe as possible.

Eyelid Cancer is Widespread

Astonishing data recently found that up to ten percent of all skin cancers occur on the eyelids. Given the small surface of the eyelids compared to the rest of the body, this is an extremely telling statistics. While the face and other exposed parts of the body usually receive sunscreen protection and can be covered in clothes, the eyelids are commonly neglected. In the words of C. William Hanke, the senior vice president of The Skin Cancer Foundation, “Eyelid skin cancer is not something most people think about. With their thin, delicate structures, the eyes and surrounding areas are particularly prone to cancers. And it’s an area people often forget to protect in the sun.”

Keys to Detection

As with all cancers, early detection can be a true life saver. The first sign of trouble is a lump or bump that bleeds but never heals or disappears. This may be followed by inflammation that is resistant to medication or the formation of a lesion with irregular growth. Sudden eyelash loss is also a sign that the eyelid is impacted by a cancer tumor.

Prevention and Treatment

In a perfect world, eyelid cancer prevention would be implemented 100 percent of the time and no patients would be forced to struggle through cancer treatment on such a delicate body part. Prevention is huge, and if you are reading this you can potentially save your own life by following these tips. First, always wear sunglasses with full UVA and UVB protection and select a style that will cover a large area around your eyes. Opt for a wide brimmed hat and sunscreen whenever you are outside as well.

If you find yourself coping with eyelid cancer, your ophthalmologist and other specialists like a radiation oncologist, surgeon, and dermatologist will develop the best coordinated plan of care to eliminate your cancer. Moh’s surgery, cryosurgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are all common treatment options to help you continue living a long and healthy life.